Update:Tomorrow Brian Carroll tells why he moved to Lakewood in May, before any new districts were drawn.

Supporters of Rep. Andy Kerr say they are puzzled over a gay veteran’s explanation for why he is challenging a fellow Democrat for a House seat in Lakewood.

Brian Carroll told The Denver Post that he lives in House District 22 and planned to challenge GOP Rep. Ken Summers, who represents the district, but that Summers’ seat and Kerr’s have been merged.

A panel redrawing legislative boundaries created a new district that will see Kerr and Summers square against each other next year.

But the plan to merge portions of their district into one seat was announced in July and made final at the Colorado Reapportionment Commission’s meeting Sept. 19. Jefferson County voter registration records show that Carroll didn’t register to vote in the current House District 22 until Oct. 3. Carroll registered in Denver in January as a Democrat, and voted in the May municipal election.

Carroll didn’t return calls for a comment.

“His story doesn’t add up,” said lobbyist Ben Waters, who backs Kerr.

Carroll’s candidacy made news because he is the first soldier to announce for office since the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell last month. Carroll said his neighbors, gay friends and fellow soldiers have urged him to run. He served in the Army for seven years and did two tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq. He now is in the Reserve.

Some of Colorado’s most prominent gays and straight allies _ including Denver City Councilwoman Robin Kniech and attorney Ted Trimpa — have rallied behind Kerr, calling him a “pro-equality hero.” They are hosting a fundraiser for Kerr Nov. 9, the day before Carroll’s campaign kick off.

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.